Exercises That Help the Elderly Relieve Stress

Because stress can lead to more serious health complications, it’s important for ageing adults to find ways to alleviate these feelings. Many seniors participate in regular exercise to keep their stress at bay. Though studies show any type of physical activity can help the body relieve stress, some exercises may be especially helpful in reducing the anxiety and stress your elderly loved one feels. The staff at Perth Home Care Assistance has put together a list of exercises your loved one may want to try.

Yoga

During stressful situations, the nervous system reacts by signalling the production of a stress hormone called cortisol. Though cortisol is necessary for the body, too much of it can cause high blood pressure, weight gain, and ulcers. During yoga, your loved one can practice different breathing patterns as he or she stretches into various poses. Regulating breathing can slow cortisol production and the body’s response to stress.

Walking

A brisk walk can boost your loved one’s emotional state as much as his or her physical health. When the heart rate is elevated during cardiovascular exercises like walking, the body releases endorphins, which are neurotransmitters that reduce pain and increase feelings of happiness and wellbeing. A 2008 study by researchers at University of Georgia found people who began a walking routine were able to reduce their stress and fatigue while increasing their energy. Just a 15-minute walk once in the morning and once in the evening can help your loved one de-stress.

Swimming

Though vigorous exercise is great for stress relief, jogging, aerobics, and walking can cause pain if your loved one has joint problems. Swimming is a great way to reap the benefits of cardiovascular exercises while being easy on the joints and knees. Because your loved one will need to regulate his or her breathing while swimming, it can trigger the diaphragm to go into a “rest and digest” state, which reduces the levels of cortisol released during stressful times.

Tai Chi

An ancient form of martial arts, tai chi focuses on connecting physical movement to breathing. During tai chi, participants are encouraged to meditate and focus on the present, which causes a reduction in stress. Additionally, because tai chi can lead to better balance, flexibility, and muscle tone, your loved one can receive a boost of confidence and increased feelings of wellbeing that help him or her better manage life’s challenges.

Exercise can help boost your loved one’s emotional and physical health in many ways. If he or she needs help maintaining a regular exercise routine, turn to Home Care Assistance. Our caregivers can assist with mobility, provide transportation to exercise classes, and help with a wide variety of other tasks. We also offer specialised Parkinson’s, stroke, and Alzheimer’s home care Perth seniors and their families can rely on. For more information and to schedule a free consultation with a Care Manager, call [hca_phone] today.